"For the first time in the seven years since she first arrived, she began to think the Orphanage was a better place for her. She just hated herself, hated her life, hated everything. "
King Augustine and Queen Pandora make a life changing decision t...
Approximately one year later, the royal family basked in the continued warmth of their harmonious bonds. Posy had chosen to legally change her name to Valency, in honour of Honeybelle, whom she took regular horse rides with, along with King Augustine. The Horse Race was once again approaching, and Valency was participating, along with Bea and Stella. The night before, Valency was reading in her bed when Mari waltzed into her bedroom. Their relationship had evolved from one of hatred to one of better understanding.
"Mari! What a surprise! I wasn't expecting you." Valency looked up and smiled enthusiastically, "And little Isidore, Aww, he's grown so much!
Mari grinned, holding her baby in her arms, "Yes, he's getting bigger every day. Thought Isidore and I would drop by and wish you some luck before the big race tomorrow."
Mari had given birth to a son named Isidore- named after Isa- and she relished in motherhood, her focus dedicated to the joyous upbringing of her ten-month-old child, surrounded by grandparents and aunts who loved him. Isidore was an adorable baby who was always smiling and giggling, and was a spitting image of Mari, inheriting her curls. Her hair, now back to its original brown bouncy curls, reflected the renewal within her. She felt more comfortable and free now that she was able to keep her hair down. Hawthorne was gone from Mari's life–for now–but she hoped it would be for good. She wouldn't allow anyone to manipulate her again.
Valency put the book she was reading to one side and bounced excitedly on her bed, signalling for Mari to sit down beside her.
"Oh, thanks, Mari! I'm really nervous, but I hope I can make you and everyone else proud."
Mari scanned the bedroom, whilst patting her cooing baby's back, "Your room looks lovely, Val. It reminds me of when Orchid and Bluebell used to spend so much time with me."
"Yeah, about that... How are Orchid and Bluebell? It's been ages since you all hung out together." Valency nervously laughed.
Valency watched and felt guilty as Mari's face fell in silent disappointment. It was silent for a little while, and all that could be heard was the sounds of Isidore babbling, adorned in his bright yellow romper.
"Well...you know how it is. Things change. Since Isidore came along, it's been a bit... different."
"Different? How so?"
"Orchid and Bluebell, they haven't really been in touch since the pregnancy. I guess they're busy with their own lives."
"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that. I thought you three were inseparable."
Mari forced a smile, "Yeah, well, life happens. People drift apart. But enough about that. Let's focus on you and the race. I really hope you come first, Val. I'll be cheering for you."
"Thanks, Mari. I'll do my best. But, you know, if there's anything on your mind, you can always talk to me."
"Thanks, Mari. I'll do my best. But, you know, if there's anything on your mind, you can always talk to me."
"I appreciate that. It's just the way things go sometimes. Families change, priorities shift...Anyway, I should get going. Isidore needs his nap, and you need your rest for tomorrow. Good luck, Val."
Valency grinned as she gave Mari a tight hug and kissed Isidore gently on the head.
"Thanks, Mari. And give my regards to Orchid and Bluebell, whenever you talk to them next."
"Will do. Take care, little sister."
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